Current and Emerging Ethical Issues in Counseling: A Delphi Study of Expert Opinions

Herlihy, Barbara; Dufrene, Roxane L.

Counseling and Values, v56 n1-2 p10-24 Oct 2011

A Delphi study was conducted to ascertain the opinions of panel experts regarding the most important current and emerging ethical issues facing the counseling profession. Expert opinions on ethical issues in counselor preparation also were sought. Eighteen panelists responded to 3 rounds of data collection interspersed with feedback. Themes that emerged as important ethical issues were ensuring that counselors practice ethically and abide by the American Counseling Association (2005) "ACA Code of Ethics", dealing with social justice and diversity issues, strengthening the professional identity of counselors, and ensuring competence in providing services within a climate of change. (Contains 3 tables.)